| The first chapter of this book follows the roots of American Christmas traditions back through centuries of religious and pagan customs to the countries of their origins. The purpose of holly and mistletoe, the Yule Log and the evergreen are explained, as well as a host of lesser known figures such as Pelsnickel and Zarte Piet (Black Pete). By December of 1860 Christmas was an official holiday. There is also a chapter for each year of the war. The author blends period illustrations with personal accounts to give the reader an entirely new perspective of the war. As the title implies, the war did not always take a holiday; however, the majority of the stories are of more peaceful nature. Accounts from both North and South, the home front and winter quarters, as well as as those actively campaigning, reveal to what extent Americans were to celebrate Christmas during the Civil War. - United States - Military - Civil War |
